Can I run away at 15?

[Guest]

Hi, I’m a 15 year old in Tampa, Florida. All my life my mother has verbally and physically abused me. I had thought about running away, but I simply figured I was only acting ungrateful. My mother feeds me, buys me things, and has her nice moments, but she has a lack of control over her anger. There was more physical abuse in the past than now, but the verbal/emotional abuse is as high as ever and I do not think I can handle it any longer without ending up again in self harm or suicide attempt. I have a close friend of mine who refrained from telling her mother everything mine has done but will soon with my consent after an incident happening today. I wanted to know the legal consequences of me running away into their household. I feel as though my parents would not consent, but is there a way I can pull free from them?

[ccsmod0]

Hi there,
Thank you for writing to us here at National Runaway Safeline (NRS). We understand it takes great courage to reach out, and we appreciate you sharing a little bit about what’s going on. It sounds like you’re quite overwhelmed by things at home right now and you mentioned being harmed. We’re sorry you’re going through this. You don't deserve to be hurt in any way. If you are at risk of any danger or feeling unsafe, we encourage you to reach out to 911 or seek emergency assistance immediately. You may also be able to report any mistreatment to CPS. Child Help USA 1-800-422-4453 www.childhelp.org is an organization that helps protect minors from being harmed.
While we are not experts on the law, 18 is generally the age that an individual may leave home without parent permission. If you are under 18 and leave home, your parent/guardian may file you as a runaway and you may be returned home. Also, those you stay with may run the risk of being charged with harboring a runaway. For more specifics on the law, the local non-emergency police or legal aid may better answer legal questions.
Often, having a safe space to share how you’re feeling may bring a variety of solutions previously not thought of. You are not alone in this. We want you to know that we are here as support to help you through this challenging time.
If you would like to talk more in detail please chat soon through our website www.1800runaway.org (click on the chat button) if you are unable to call in. We unfortunately cannot give advice as we are non-directive. You know your situation best
We hope to hear from you soon.
Be safe,
NRS